Dr. Greg Macasaet, an anesthesiologist from Manila Doctors Hospital has passed away due to COVID-19. The doctor was believed to have contracted the virus from exposure to a COVID-19 patient who recently traveled abroad.
His wife, fellow anesthesiologist Dra. Evalyn Talens has also contracted COVID-19 and is currently hospitalized.
Manila Doctors Hospital released a statement confirming Dr. Macasaet’s death and grieved the loss of “one of the best anesthesiologists in our country” and described him as a “brave” frontliner.
Dr. Macasaet is survived by his wife and their son whom Dr. Macasaet asked people to care for after his passing.
In a viral Facebook post, a netizen shared the last messages that Dr. Macasaet sent before he passed on.
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The text read:
“Good evening, my beloved brethren! The turn of events is just no longer going in my favor. The feeling you get, aside from extreme pains all over, difficulty of breathing and as if all life is being sucked from your body!
“They will be putting cut down lines and central tubes on me anytime soon! If they intubate me and place me on ventilator, then the game is almost over!
“If Ateng (referring to his wife) survives, then my wish for her and Raymond (his son who is with autism) for a long and happy life will bear fruition!”
He added, “Raymond, however, needs financial and emotional care for the rest of his life! Something I may no longer be able to fulfill! It is my fervent hope that all of you may assist the rest of my family in our most difficult times!”
He also detailed his battle with COVID-19 in a text message to his godson, which was shared on Facebook.
The Philippines has at least 380 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 25 deaths and 17 recoveries.
Dr. Macasaet was among the three healthcare frontliners who passed away due to the coronavirus.